General
double overhead
What does double overhead mean?
A wave with a face about twice the height of a standing surfer, i.e. serious, powerful surf.
"By midday it had jumped to double overhead and thinned the crowd out fast."
Origin
Surf sizing convention measuring waves in body heights ('overhead').
Frequently asked questions
How big is a double overhead wave?
It's a wave with a face about twice the height of a standing surfer, so roughly 10 to 12 feet, which is serious, powerful surf.
How is wave size measured this way?
Surfers often measure waves in body heights relative to a standing rider, so 'overhead' is head-high and 'double overhead' is twice that.
Is double overhead surf for beginners?
No. Double overhead is powerful, advanced-level surf that tends to thin out the crowd to more experienced riders.
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